First seniors citizen walk a fact

POSTED: 02/25/13 12:10 PM

St. Maarten – Last Thursday would have been a day like any other in Philipsburg, except for the novel sight of St. Maarten’s past, present and future generations knitted together on the cobblestones of Front Street.
On closer inspection, the group could be distinguished; they were the youths of the Voice of our Children (VOOC) foundation, the gentle giants of the Home Away from Home foundation, seniors in wheelchairs and on foot, as well as students of the St. Maarten Vocational Training School. The event was the inaugural Seniors City Stroll, organized by these groups to bridge the gap between the young and old. The seniors were treated to the company of the young people as they pushed them in chairs or walked alongside them down Front Street. The walk attracted numerous people and tourists along the route, described the scene as “a sight for sore eyes.”
Well-known fitness enthusiast, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams joined in the walk but did not go the entire route. Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin and Independent Parliamentarian Romain Laville fared better though as they completed the entire walk.
It started just after 9:00 am from Sea Palace Hotel and steadily made its way up Front Street, stopping at some popular junctures along the way. The gathering visited the Oranje School, where students serenaded the elderly with lively songs. They also made craft items, such as hearts and presented these, along with flowers to the seniors. The next stop for the walkers was St. Rose Arcade where everyone received sandwiches and beverages. They then made their way to the St. Joseph Primary School, the designated “watering hole” where more students belted out songs.
The organizers plan to make this an annual event which will ensure that seniors are not forgotten and that children are taught the value of taking care of the elderly. Among its many benefits are health and fitness values as well.